WILMINGTON, N.C. (WGHP) — New details have emerged following the arrest of James Edwin Yokeley, the Chair of the Surry County Board of Elections, who has been charged with felony child abuse, possession of a controlled substance, and contaminating food with a controlled substance. The arrest, made on Tuesday, comes after an August 8 encounter at a Wilmington Sheetz, where Yokeley allegedly placed pills into his grandchildren’s ice cream.
What Happened
According to the Wilmington Police Department, Yokeley flagged down an officer at a local Sheetz store and reported finding something suspicious in his grandchildren’s ice cream. Upon investigation, two pills were found, though medical professionals confirmed that the children had not ingested anything harmful. Video footage reportedly shows Yokeley placing the pills into the ice cream.
Warrants state that Yokeley intentionally placed a blue pressed pill containing MDMA and cocaine into the children’s Blizzard drink while acting as their guardian for the weekend. Yokeley, who was appointed as the chair of the Surry County Board of Elections in June, now faces serious charges related to the incident.
Who Is James Edwin Yokeley?
James Edwin Yokeley, 56, was chosen by Dave Boliek to lead the Surry County Board of Elections in June 2025. The charges against Yokeley have left the local community shocked, as he was a key figure in managing the county’s elections. His role as an elections official has now been overshadowed by the criminal charges he faces.
Background or Timeline
The incident occurred on August 8, 2025, when Yokeley reportedly flagged down an officer at the Sheetz store in Wilmington. During his interaction with law enforcement, he stated that he had found something in his grandchildren’s ice cream, leading to a further investigation. The pills found in the food were later determined to be a controlled substance. Following the release of video footage, authorities confirmed that Yokeley had placed the pills into the children’s food intentionally.
Yokeley was arrested and charged, and the Wilmington Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The arrest has garnered significant attention, with local residents expressing shock over the charges. Many have turned to social media to discuss the incident, with some questioning how such an individual could hold a position of responsibility in managing elections.
One local resident shared, “It’s hard to believe someone so trusted in the community could be involved in something like this. It’s devastating for the family, and for the integrity of the Board of Elections.”
Official Statement or What Happens Next
On Wednesday, the Surry County Board of Elections released a statement acknowledging the charges against Yokeley. The statement emphasized that both the State Board of Elections and Surry County Board of Elections are aware of the situation and are gathering information. They expressed their commitment to supporting the Surry County board, ensuring that the county’s elections will continue smoothly.
As for Yokeley, he remains in custody, facing serious legal consequences for his actions. His future with the Surry County Board of Elections is uncertain.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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